08/04/2026
On August 3, 2026, a contractor working on a City project damaged a water service line and later caused a significant break in a City water main.
City Water Department staff initially responded after being notified that a Âľ-inch service line had been damaged. While crews were gathering parts and preparing to make that repair, the contractor began removing a large section of concrete located directly above the water main. The concrete had not been completely cut before it was pulled with heavy equipment. It fell forward, damaged the top of the main, and created an approximately four-inch opening in the pipe.
City crews attempted to isolate the damaged main but were unable to shut it down using the existing valves. The Water Director notified the project manager at approximately 10:17 a.m. that insertion valves would be needed to isolate the break. According to the information provided to the City, the valve installation company was not contacted until approximately 2:00 p.m.
Once the insertion valves were installed, the Water Department was able to isolate the damaged area and restore water service.
We understand how difficult and concerning this disruption was, particularly during the hottest part of the day and in homes that rely on evaporative cooling. While the damage was caused by the project contractor, City departments immediately worked to protect and assist residents. The Fire Department delivered bottled water door to door in the affected area, and cooling stations were opened at Eagle Park and the Fire Station.
We sincerely regret the hardship this incident caused. The City is reviewing what occurred with the contractor and project team to determine what steps are needed to prevent a similar incident in the future.